A lighting device for motor vehicles comprises a light source and an end cover having at least a first section and a second section. The lighting device further comprises a first reflector, which directs light emitted by the light source on to the end cover. A first optically active element is arranged in the ray path between the light source and the first reflector and deflects the light rays emitted by the light source, so that the deflected rays strike the first reflector at an angle of incidence, the associated angle of reflection of which causes the rays from the first reflector to be directed at least substantially on to the second section of the end cover.